Browse Data and Analysis

This report provides the latest status of consumption, regulation, public perception, research, development, production, government policy, and use of agricultural biotechnology in Japan. In general, Japan uses a science-based process for evaluating and granting approval for import and production of genetically engineered products.

Import permits for genetically engineered (GE) corn from the United States are once again issued by South Africa. After a mid-summer drought that caused a 22 percent drop in production, South Africa needs to import corn to supplement domestic production.

In 2024, Japanese oil refineries have continued supplying ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE), which is made from approximately 824 million liters of bioethanol and reflects the annual target volume set by the Government of Japan (GOJ).

Post received confirmation on United States genetically engineered (GE) soybean eligibility to enter South Africa. After a mid-summer drought, South Africa needs corn and soybean imports to complement local production. South Africa allows for the importation of synchronized GE event approvals from an exporting country.

The production of apples, pears and table grapes is forecast to improve in MY 2024/25 from MY 2023/24 based on the cold, wet winter of 2024 and new trees coming into production.

FAS/Tokyo projects that Japan's fluid milk production will decline in 2025, primarily due to a decrease in the milking cow population anticipated from 2024.

Wine grape production in 2025 is forecast to improve by five percent on favorable winter conditions, which will translate into a slight increase in wine production.

The lower corn crop in marketing year 2023/24, coupled with strong regional demand, especially for white corn, has prompted higher prices in Southern Africa.

This report lists major export certificates required by the Japanese government to export food and agricultural products from the United States to Japan.

Porcine semen is now eligible to be exported to South Africa from the United States.

The Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) of Japan proposed two sets of revisions. One is for Japan’s maximum residue levels for seven agricultural chemicals (Acrinathrin, Dazomet, Metam and Methyl isothiocyanate, Flutianil, Fosthiazate, Inpyrfluxam, Spirotetramat, Sulfoxaflor, and Dibutylhydroxytoluene) for various agricultural commodities.

This report provides an overview of Japan’s regulations and standards for foods and agricultural products. For more information on Japan's certification requirements, see the FAIRS Export Certificate Report for Japan.